On April 3rd, Mayor Durkan announced emergency legislation making temporary land use permitting process changes that prioritize affordable housing, keep projects moving forward by allowing City staff to complete review processes, and allow for robust community participation during this public health emergency by replacing in-person meetings with virtual and electronic outreach.
If approved by City Council, the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) will temporarily conduct the design review process administratively, as well as be given the authority to expedite reviews for City-funded affordable housing projects that are able to come on line within the next year.
The Department of Neighborhoods is authorized to allow historic preservation staff to approve minor changes to City Landmarks, Special Review Districts, Landmark Districts, and Historical Districts.
This legislation is a temporary six-month solution to keep critical projects and processes moving that allows for community engagement during the COVID-19 public health crisis.
If you have questions about how this legislation may impact a specific development project, please contact:
Design Review
Lisa Rutzick, SDCI
Lisa.Rutzick@seattle.gov
Landmarks and Historic Districts
Sara Belz, DON
Sara.Belz@seattle.gov